Neuromodulatory role of withania somnifera

Abstract

Withania somnifera, commonly known as Ashwagandha, is one of the important herbs being used in Ayurveda since times immemorial. It has been classified as a 'rasayana' herb owing to its adaptogenic and rejuvenating properties. Both root and leaf extracts of the plant have been used for the treatment of various disorders such as cancer, anxiety, inflammation and various neurological disorders due to its wide array of properties. This chapter focuses on the effects of W. somnifera in various CNS disorders. Various pre-clinical studies investigating the use of W. somnifera in modulation of neuroplasticity, anxiety, neuroinflammation and neuroprotection have been discussed in detail. A plethora of studies confirm the use of W. Somnifera and its active phytochemicals (Withaferin-A, Withanone, Withanoside IV, Withanolide A, sitoindosides VII-X) alone or in combination as potential therapeutic agents. W. Somnifera can be incorporated as an important dietary supplement for management of anxiety and associated cognitive and functional impairments.